Nanomedicine

From ArticleWorld

Nanomedicine refers to the application of nanotechnology in medical sciences and research. The important sub-branches of nanomedicine include nanoparticle drug delivery and possible applications of molecular nanotechnology (MNT) after extensive studies and convincing experiments.

Nanomedicine in skin treatment

Nanotechnology is already in use as sunscreen and sunburn protection creams. Nanoparticles spread on the face can block out harmful ultra-violet (UV) radiation and hence prevent tanning or skin cancer. The nanoparticles, that are invisible after being applied since they are too small to scatter light, have enabled effective skin treatments without compromising on looks. Formulations such as these mainly include zinc and titanium oxide compounds that are effectively UV absorbent.

Nanomedicine in cancer treatment

Nanomedicine could use ‘nanorobots’ effectively. Though some experts in medical and scientific circles are sceptical about nanorobots being able to manipulate molecular transfers, research is continuing in this direction.

It has been advocated that the world of medicine will change completely. Nanomedicine would make use of such nanoscale robots to aid cancer treatment, apart from repairing or detecting damaged cells and infections. Dead or cancerous cells can be specifically singled out and isolated by nanorobots passing through the bloodstream; being able to traverse through any of the blood capillaries. Typically, a nanorobot’s size for such functions could be in the scale of 0.5-3 micrometers. Carbon, due to its well recognized strength, could be ideal for nanorobots.

Future of nanomedicine

Nanomedicine advocates voice the opinion that cancer treatment could be more effective in this technique, than conventional therapies like radiation and chemotherapy. This is because only cancerous cells would be identified and eliminated. Healthy cells would be spared, unlike the case with traditional treatments. Nanomedicine may also help challenge biological aging and physical trauma.